The Manchester City vs. Real Madrid clash has gradually become the latest ritual in the Champions League. It is no different this year, a fourth season running when the two European behemoths square up, although highly unexpectedly via the Champions League playoffs.
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Neither team won a direct ticket to the round of 16 after poor performances in the league phase, which forced them into this winner-takes-all contest that may shape this season for both. City is on one side, desperate to flex its muscles and put recent disappointments behind its back, while Real Madrid is there wanting everyone to remember very well that history and legacy often mean more than statistics. But amid all of this, there is one factor that could decide it: injuries.
With that in mind, can Manchester City still inspire confidence?
Pep Guardiola's team goes into the clash shrouded in uncertainty. While they secured their playoff spot in the final matchday of the league phase, City has been inconsistent at several junctures of the season. The fact that they won seven of their last ten matches underlines that they are still a formidable force; however, losses to PSG and Arsenal have shown weaknesses that may be exploited by a Real Madrid side.
To further exacerbate the problem, Guardiola is also having to contend with a spate of important absentees: Rodri, the midfield anchor, is out; the back four is missing such vital components as Nathan Aké and Rúben Dias, with Jeremy Doku another absentee. If Ederson remains a doubt, Guardiola will be compelled to adopt a radical change in defensive structure and strategy.
Historically, City has performed well against Real Madrid at the Etihad Stadium, but doubts over their consistency still linger. Against an opponent that thrives under pressure, any mistake will be decisive.
Real Madrid and the weight of experience in big moments
When it comes to the Champions League, Real Madrid is perhaps one side that can never actually be written off. On nights when they aren't at their fluent best, Los Blancos somehow find a way through-more often than not via individual brilliance and incomparable resilience.
However, this time around, it's added challenges for Carlo Ancelotti in the shape of an injured-heavy defensive lineup with David Alaba, Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger, and Dani Carvajal all ruled out. Italian manager Ancelotti must look at solutions that could keep the backline steady under the power strike of City's attack.
A 1-1 draw against Atlético de Madrid last weekend kept Real Madrid atop La Liga but perhaps signified much of what has kept them searching for their balance all season. The silver lining for the Madridistas is that an attack, for all defensive concerns, just seems to continue delivering. And if there's anything like a club that does know how to overcome adversity and win away from home in high-pressure situations, it's Real Madrid.